February 8, 2014 3:21pm ESTFebruary 8, 2014 3:21pm ESTReports say the Mariners are close to a deal with free agent outfielder Nelson Cruz, who has been linked to the team since early December.Nelson Cruz(AP Photo)

The Tacoma News Tribune beat reporter tweeted most think the contract will be two years. No word on money and pending a physical. Any team that signs Cruz will have to give up a draft pick to sign him.

The Mariners have been linked to Cruz since the winter meetings in December. The 33-year-old provides a solid bat in the lineup, but as SN's Jesse Spector has said, Cruz may have difficulties in the expansive outfield at Safeco Field.

An All-Star in 2013, Cruz hit .266 last season for the Texas Rangers with 27 home runs and a .833 OPS in 109 games. He was suspended for 50 games, served in August and September, for his involvement in the biogenesis scandal.

The Mariners have added Robinson Cano, Corey Hart and Logan Morrison during the offseason. They ended 2013 with a 71-91 record, 25 games behind AL West-leading Oakland.